A tooth abscess is an infection that starts within the root of a tooth or in the gums. It is caused by bacteria building up inside the tiny pockets between the teeth and gum line, which can lead to inflammation and swelling. The bacteria can spread from one part of the mouth to another, creating abscesses in multiple areas if left untreated. And the most common way of treating this kind of problem is by tooth extraction.
So what happens to the abscess after tooth extraction? Read more as we’ll get into the details of this dental topic in today’s article.
What Causes Tooth Abscess
A tooth abscess is a buildup of pus that can form inside the teeth or gums as a result of an infection. They can be caused by various factors, but the most common cause of an abscess is when bacteria enter the pulp chamber in the center of a tooth – either through decay or injury. As bacteria build up in the pulp, an abscess forms.
Once a tooth abscess has formed, it usually needs to be treated with a root canal or extraction. This is because the infection can spread to other areas of the mouth and cause further damage if not addressed. During a root canal procedure, your dentist will drill into the infected tooth and remove the pulp and any bacteria. If the infection is too severe, your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction instead.
What Happens To The Affected Area After Tooth Extraction
When a tooth abscess forms, it can cause extreme discomfort and pain in the affected area. If the infection is severe enough, a dentist may suggest extracting the affected tooth as part of treatment. After extraction, the abscess should start to heal and resolve itself without any further interventions.
The healing process begins almost immediately after extraction. As the procedure is carried out, much of the infected fluid will be drained from the site. This helps to reduce pressure and discomfort in the area. After extraction, a small blood clot may form at the tooth socket. The clot protects the wound while it heals, preventing infection from setting in.
In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to help speed up recovery, reduce inflammation and eliminate any remaining bacteria.
Antibiotics such as amoxicillin, clindamycin, and metronidazole are commonly prescribed by dentists after tooth extraction.
Amoxicillin is a type of antibiotic medication commonly used to treat infections caused by bacteria. It belongs to a class of antibiotics known as penicillins, which work by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. Amoxicillin works by interfering with the production of bacterial cell walls, making it difficult for the bacteria to survive and replicate. This helps the body to fight off the infection.
Clindamycin is another type of antibiotic medication used to treat infections caused by bacteria. It belongs to a class of antibiotics known as lincosamides, which work by preventing the production of proteins needed for bacterial growth. Clindamycin works in a similar way to amoxicillin.
Metronidazole is a type of antibiotic medication used to treat infections caused by bacteria. It belongs to a class of antibiotics known as nitroimidazoles, which work by interfering with the production of proteins needed for bacterial growth. Metronidazole works in a similar way to other antibiotics, helping to prevent the growth and spread of infection-causing bacteria.
Over-the-counter pain medications may also be recommended to ease discomfort during healing.
Aside from that, it is important to practice good oral hygiene while the area heals to prevent further infection. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash. Keep in mind that you should avoid cleaning the wound itself as it can cause further damage.
The abscess should start to heal within a few days after extraction unless complications arise. Most of the swelling and pain should resolve within a week, although full healing of the area may take up to two weeks. The tooth socket will eventually fill in with new tissue and heal completely.
In some cases, the abscess may not resolve itself after extraction. If there is no improvement in symptoms within a few days or if more severe problems arise, it is important to speak to a dentist as soon as possible. If symptoms persist or worsen, further treatment by an emergency dentist may be necessary.
Final Word
For more information about tooth extraction, abscesses and other dental procedures, contact Vista Family Dentistry located in Waukesha, WI for advice. They will be able to provide you with tailored information based on the specifics of your individual case. They are also serving Pewaukee residents so if you’re in that area, feel free to reach out to them.